Harwich Cultural Districts

Harwich Center Cultural District-52nd Cultural District for the State of Massachusetts 

The Harwich Center Cultural District is in the heart of the historical hub of the Town of Harwich. The Center is home to many events, historical sites and landmarks. The Cape Cod Rail Trail runs parallel to historic Main Street connecting the district's valuable assets. Harwich Center Cultural District is anchored by ‘The 204’ which is home to the creative community; a repurposed middle school turned into Studio Launch Space as well as the epi-center for all cultural programs and events. Our Harwich Center Cultural District is home to not only our historical sites and rich history but the Harwich Mariners Baseball Team who plays within the Cape Cod Baseball league, one of the nation’s premier collegiate summer leagues. From a deep dive into history at the Brooks Academy to learn about the first private academy in Harwich, or a walk over to the Brooks Library to learn about the Cranberry Growing History and the Cape Verdean Culture, Harwich Center Cultural District is the place where art and culture meet history.

Harwich Port Cultural District-53rd Cultural District for the State of Massachusetts 

The Harwich Port Cultural District is the place for all things land and sea! On the sunniest side of Cape Cod, Harwich Port was settled by the seaman and fisherman, many of whom specialized in boat-making, sail-making and carpentry. Harwich Port has quickly over the years become a visitor’s haven with a rich arts and culture scene. From Live music in the Port throughout the summer, to Art in the Park, Artists Shacks at our Seaside Marketplace and more the Port has all you need. With a variety of tasty menus, quaint shops, galleries, and more, Harwich Port Cultural District is the hub for Live Music, Gallery Strolls, and immersing yourself in Art. Scenic overlooks and quick access to numerous beaches allows all visitors a chance to engage with the Marine Science Life and learn about the significance it has for our cultural community. The Harwich Port Cultural District is a vibrant and robust area that has something for everyone.

What is Next for the Cultural Districts:

• Creation and Implementation of Wayfarer signage around town
• Creation and Implementation of a website
• Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies to celebrate both districts
• Community Gallery and Independent Artist "Celebrating Harwich's Arts & Culture" 
• Other events of celebration and programs to be announced

How to Stay Connected:

• Visit us on Social Media via Facebook 
• Announcements and other news will be noted on social media, press releases, and Board of Selectman Meetings during Public Announcements

The Harwich Department of Cultural Affairs administers and supports creative and cultural programming throughout the Town of Harwich. Alongside community collaborators, the municipal department operates as a presence for equal access to arts and culture.

The mission of the Cultural Affairs Department is to administer the cultural development agenda and support equal access to arts and culture throughout the town and to execute programs and events that support department goals. With the pending designation of two cultural districts, the Department of Cultural Affairs is working to network with groups, businesses, community partners, and creatives to put together the arts and cultural resources that the community has to offer. 

Priorities

• Build the creative vitality of the downtown core and neighborhoods by working to develop a cultural district designation
• Support and produce public art in all aspects of the town
• Connect entrepreneurs, businesses, and property owners with cultural assets within the community
• Marketing Harwich's creative assets to the region and beyond

Services

• Promotion of creative design through renting affordable studio space at The 204
• Rental space availability at The 204 for community partners, organizations, and others to use for cultural programming needs. 
• Promotion of cultural programs and events within the Town of Harwich in all seven villages
• Attract new residents and visitors through the promotion of cultural offerings and activities within the proposed districts
• Engagement in planning initiatives to produce and support creative economic development
• Provide networking and collaborative support for all artists, creators, and makers within the Town of Harwich through events and related workshops